Oyster Perpetual 6830 replica

Rolex has applied for two patents for this unique process, which, in addition to mastering the entire process of making ceramic parts, allowed it to create the two-tone Cerachrom insert. With its clever technology, it has overcome technical challenges that were once thought to be impossible.

Ceramics are made from a mixture of powders with different chemical compositions and added binders to shape the ceramics. The resulting wet clay is processed under high pressure to form a blank for the bezel. The first high-temperature treatment removes the binder, leaving only the ceramic.

This is a crucial step in turning half of the red circle into blue. This bezel is injected with a chemical solution, and great care must be taken to let the bezel absorb the solution. The formulation of the compound must also balance the concentration and amount of the solution. During the sintering phase, two colors become visible.

The bezel is then heated to 1,600 degrees Celsius. This high-temperature treatment determines the final hardness and strength of the ceramic. During this process, the bezel shrinks by about 25% and the two colors become visible. The inner and outer sides of the bezel are machined with diamond tools to achieve the exact shape and size needed for the mechanical assembly and to perfect the appearance. The sintered ceramic is so hard that only a diamond tool can be used to cut the bezel. The surface of the outer ring is coated with a thin layer of platinum using PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) technology. The precious metal coating is about one micron thick and is covered with engraved numerals and progressive scales.

Diamond polishing removes precious metals from the bezel’s surface, while the coating on the numerals and progressive scales remains visible. This process also adds shine to the Cerachrom bezel.